Outlook on climate change adaptation in the Tropical Andes mountains

harsh mountain environment, for example to time sowing and harvesting. Traditional agricultural knowledge is in many places losing its utility as local climates and ecosystems are changing (Berkes et al., 2000). Past practices to reduce risk, such as crop rotation and the cultivation ofmultiple kinds of tubers in each lot, have in recent years been increasingly abandoned, partly to meet market expectations (Ruiz et al., 2013). This also has a negative effect

on communities’ ability to cope with unexpected change; forces beyond their control are threatening the resilience that some rural communities have developed over centuries. Forests, lakes, rivers and other ecosystems currently provide important food sources for many living in the Tropical Andes. Fishing is an important source of protein for many communities, including people

living on and around Lake Titicaca, where fishing is a significant industry. Foraging in the tropical forests and valleys of the Andes is another important food source. The rich biodiversity also has the potential to provide agricultural crops in the future. Many of the current food staples around the world were originally found in the Andes Mountains and there could potentially be species suited for growing in changing and challenging environments.

Otavalo market, Ecuador

Fisherman on Lake Titicaca, Bolivia

Tubers

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